Bedlam’s ‘The Crucible’ Theater Review: Brings New Sizzle To An Old Standard

Arthur’s Miller’s The Crucible is one of the most-produced plays in the U.S., so it takes a lot make this old standard come alive. The experimental theater troupe Bedlam, known for their pared-down productions of The Seagull and Pride & Prejudice, manage to infuse the classic with new energy in its production which opened tonight at Off Broadway’s Connelly Theater. Taking full advantage of the theater-in-the-round set up, the cast leap forward into the audiences’ space bringing an immediacy to the action.

The story is familiar: In 17th Century Salem, Mass., teenager Abigail (Truett Felt) leads a group of young girls, who are caught dancing in the woods. To get out of trouble, they start accusing women of witchcraft until hysteria sweeps through the town. John Proctor (Ryan Quinn), who has had an affair with Abigail, spearheads the campaign to uncover the truth when the mob turns against his wife. The play, written in 1954, was meant as a commentary on McCarthyism – but the resonances with the Trump era are eerie, though none are made explicit. By cleverly tweaking the staging, Bedlam brings new and unexpected energy to Miller’s work.

The Crucible runs through Dec. 27. Get tickets here.